Sharad Navratri

    What is Sharad Navratri?

    Nine forms, nine nights, one Shakti

    The Katha

    The demon Mahishasura terrorised all three worlds. From the combined energy of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, Maa Durga manifested and waged a nine-night war, finally slaying Mahishasura on the tenth day. Those nine nights became Navratri and the tenth day, Vijayadashami. Each night honours a different form of the Goddess.

    Mantra

    ॐ ऐं ह्रीं क्लीं चामुण्डायै विच्चे

    Salutations to Devi Chamunda — the seed-invocation of all Shakti.

    Vrat & Vidhi

    Nine-day fast — fruits and milk only. Begin with Kalash Sthapana, light an Akhand Jyoti, recite Durga Saptashati daily. Avoid onion, garlic, meat and alcohol. On the ninth day perform Kanya Pujan and Havan.

    Bhog

    Kheer, halwa, puri, chana, coconut, jaggery

    Day by day

    1. 1Day 1 — Shailaputri · Ghee
    2. 2Day 2 — Brahmacharini · Sugar / Mishri
    3. 3Day 3 — Chandraghanta · Milk / Kheer
    4. 4Day 4 — Kushmanda · Malpua
    5. 5Day 5 — Skandamata · Banana
    6. 6Day 6 — Katyayani · Honey
    7. 7Day 7 — Kalaratri · Jaggery
    8. 8Day 8 — Mahagauri · Coconut
    9. 9Day 9 — Siddhidatri · Sesame / Halwa-Puri